AUC Head Addresses Africa Adaptation and Development Meeting

The Chairperson of the African Union Commission, Youssouf Youssouf, addressed a virtual meeting of the Africa Adaptation & Development Emergency Leaders’ Meeting. The meeting, chaired by President William Ruto, included Heads of State and Government from Africa, partner countries, leaders of international financial institutions, and strategic partners.

Climate Crisis Impact on Africa

Youssouf stated that Africa is facing the immediate effects of a climate crisis despite not being a primary contributor to it. He highlighted the detrimental impact of droughts, floods, and rising temperatures on lives, economies, and ecosystems across the continent. Shrinking climate finance is also jeopardizing development progress. Youssouf emphasized that the situation constitutes a development, justice, and security emergency, not solely a climate emergency.

Need for Adaptation Finance

The Chairperson indicated that achieving global climate goals requires Africa’s participation, and Africa’s potential cannot be realized without substantial, predictable, and equitable adaptation finance. He asserted that Africa possesses solutions, including youth-led innovation, climate-smart agriculture, renewable energy, resilient infrastructure, and nature-based solutions.

Africa’s Potential for Green Growth

Youssouf suggested that with appropriate financial support and technology, Africa can spearhead global green growth initiatives. He called for the launch of AAAP2.0 (2026–2030) to facilitate large-scale adaptation finance, encourage private investment, integrate resilience into development planning, and prioritize the needs of people, particularly women and youth.

Climate Resilience in Development

The Chairperson underscored the connection between adaptation and development, stating that all infrastructure projects, including roads, schools, hospitals, and farms, must be designed with climate resilience in mind.